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8982 



Bureau of Mines Information Circular/1984 



Conservation and Development 
In-House and Contract Research 
in Fiscal Year 1984 

By Staff, Bureau of Mines 




UNITED STATES DEPARTMENT OF THE INTERIOR 






Information Circular 8982 



Conservation and Development 
In-House and Contract Research 
in Fiscal Year 1984 

By Staff, Bureau of Mines 






UNITED STATES DEPARTMENT OF THE INTERIOR 
William P. Clark, Secretary 

BUREAU OF MINES 
Robert C. Horton, Director 



<** 






Library of Congress Cataloging in Publication Data: 



Conservation and development in-house and contract research in fiscal 
year 1984. 

(Bureau of Mines information circular ; 8982) 

Supt. of Docs, no.: I 28.27:898,2. 

1. Mining engineering— Research— United States. 2. Conservation 
of natural resources— Research— United States. I. United States. Bu- 
reau of Mines. II. Series: Information circular (United States. Bureau 
of Mines) ; 8982. 



TN295.U4 [TN23] 622s [622\072073] 84-9507 



^ CONTENTS 

Page 
Vj 

1" Abs tract 1 

Vj Introduction 2 

Program outline 2 

Mining technology 3 

Metal-nonmetal mining technology 3 

In-house pro j ect s 3 

Contract pro j ect s 5 

Coal mining technology 7 

In-house proj ects 7 

Contract proj ects 9 

Resource conservation technology 14 

Controlling mine wastes 14 

In-house proj ects 14 

Contract projects 15 

Conserving land resources 18 

In-house projects 18 

Contract proj ects 19 









CONSERVATION AND DEVELOPMENT IN-HOUSE AND CONTRACT RESEARCH 

IN FISCAL YEAR 1984 

By Staff, Bureau of Mines 



ABSTRACT 

This publication summarizes the in-house and contract research proj- 
ects programmed for fiscal year 1984 by the Bureau of Mines under its 
Conservation and Development activity. The document provides a mecha- 
nism for interested parties to gain insight into projects of the Bu- 
reau's Conservation and Development research program. 

The objective of the Conservation and Development Program is to pro- 
vide the technological advances needed to stimulate the mining of do- 
mestic deposits containing critical, strategic, and other essential 
minerals in compliance with existing regulations and at costs suffi- 
ciently low to be competitive in world markets. Research efforts are 
directed toward improving the fundamental understanding of processes 
and procedures involved in the production of minerals. The overall 
goals will be accomplished by investigating alternative mining methods 
to increase domestic production of critical and strategic minerals from 
low-grade deposits; expanding the technology for the economic and effi- 
cient extraction of minerals consistent with cost-effective compliance 
with environmental regulations; and advancing the technologies needed 
to insure an adequate supply of coal. 



INTRODUCTION 



To achieve the Bureau's Conservation 
and Development Program objective, the 
fiscal year 1984 program is structured 
into two subprograms: Mining Technology 
and Resource Conservation Technology. 

The Mining Technology subprogram ad- 
dresses metal and nonmetal mining tech- 
nology and coal mining productivity. Re- 
search relating to metal and nonmetal 
mining is focused on advancing the tech- 
nology in areas that will improve the 
competitive position of the domestic in- 
dustry with respect to imported minerals, 
especially strategic and critical miner- 
als. Coal mining research addresses 
technologies directed toward reducing the 
cost of production through improved min- 
ing systems, and conserving nonrenewable 
coal resources through improved recovery. 

The Resource Conservation Technology 
subprogram includes research to investi- 
gate problems in the handling, disposing, 
and treatment of mine wastes and mine 
water in an economic and environmentally 
acceptable manner and to improve technol- 
ogy to minimize the adverse impacts of 
subsidence and other surface effects of 
mining. 

This project annotation summarizes the 
fiscal year 1984 in-house and contract 
research projects supported by the Bu- 
reau of Mines under its Conservation and 
Development Program activity. The report 
provides a mechanism for interested 
parties to gain insight into ongoing 



research efforts. The projects presented 
were programmed prior to the beginning of 
the fiscal year and are subject to change 
based on emerging priorities and avail- 
ability of funds. 

Contracting in the Bureau of Mines is 
conducted in strict accordance with Fed- 
eral Procurement Regulations , and solici- 
tation is conducted by formal advertise- 
ment in the Commerce Business Daily. No 
additional information will be supplied 
on new contract projects until after the 
requests for proposal (RFP's) are made 
available. 

Each active project name is followed, 
in parentheses , by the abbreviation of 
the research center responsible for tech- 
nical performance. In the case of active 
contract projects, the center designation 
is followed by the name of the contractor 
and the contract number. Abbreviations 
for research centers are as follows: 

DRC - Denver Research Center 

PRC - Pittsburgh Research Center 

RORC - Rolla Research Center 

SLRC - Salt Lake Research Center 

SRC - Spokane Research Center 

TCRC - Twin Cities Research Center 

TURC - Tuscaloosa Research Center 

WO - Washington Office 

For additional information regarding this 
research program, contact the Bureau's 
Division of Conservation and Development, 
Washington, DC. 



PROGRAM OUTLINE 



The Conservation and Development Pro- 
gram is the Federal Government's mining 
research program aimed at assisting the 
advancement of technologies needed to al- 
low mining of domestic deposits contain- 
ing critical, strategic, and other es- 
sential minerals in compliance with all 
existing regulations and at costs suffi- 
ciently low to be competitive in world 
and domestic markets. It also addresses 
technologies needed to insure an adequate 
and economic supply of coal to meet the 
U.S. demand . 



The program is conducted by means of 
both in-house and contract efforts. The 
in-house effort develops technology 
through projects that are more efficient- 
ly conducted internally and maintains the 
necessary Bureau expertise to develop, 
monitor, and guide the contract research 
to assure the most efficient overall 
effect. 

The Conservation and Development 
Program for FY 1984 contains two 



subprograms: Mining Technology and Re- activities 
source Conservation Technology. Research described. 

MINING TECHNOLOGY 



of these 



programs are 



1. 



METAL-NONMETAL MINING TECHNOLOGY 

In-House Projects 

Geotechnical Technology To Reduce 
Mine Development Lead Time for 
Strategic Minerals Production (DRC) 



Objective : To investigate innovative 
premining and mining technologies needed 
to support the rapid development of stra- 
tegic and critical mineral deposits in 
the event of supply disruptions. In- 
cluded in these investigations are the 
evaluation of potential technologies for 
the determination of the location of min- 
eralized zones; the delineation and char- 
acterization of the mineral deposits; the 
determination of the geotechnical charac- 
terization of both the mineralized zone 
and surrounding rock; and the evaluation 
of alternative mining technologies best 
suited for the most rapid recovery meth- 
ods in light of mineral availibility sit- 
uations and existing environmental and 
economic conditions. 

2. Structural Characterization for Deep 
Mine Acces sways (SRC) 

Objective : To provide mine operators 
with a data base and design approach for 
evaluating the structural response of 
deep mine openings to various ground 
conditions, stress levels, and support 
mechanisms. Research efforts will be 
directed toward data collection and anal- 
ysis, devising mathematical modeling 
techniques to predict behavior, and con- 
ducting in situ measurement studies to 
verify design approaches. 

3. Mining With Backfill (SRC) 

Objective : To investigate the tech- 
nologies required to obtain a greater 
extraction rate from metal deposits by 
using mine waste as backfill. The pur- 
pose of using mine waste as backfill is 
twofold. First, as an environmentally 



sound means of disposing of such solid 
waste; and second, as a support medium 
in underground openings, which permits 
the extraction of valuable ores left in 
pillars or as support. Such use of mine 
backfill would increase the recovery 
of the mineral resources in large ore 
bodies, and would stabilize the under- 
ground workings once mining operations 
cease, thereby minimizing the impacts 
from subsidence. Fundamental investiga- 
tions will be conducted to improve the 
understanding of the behavior of backfill 
structures and to improve their load 
carrying abilities. 

4. Continuous Linings for Mine 
Haulageways (SRC) 

Objective : To investigate innovative 
techniques for providing more effective 
and more economical support for under- 
ground mine haulageways. Emphasis will 
be on new concepts and low-cost materials 
for wide generic application to various 
mining situations in order to provide in- 
creased productivity in soft, caving, or 
squeezing ground. 

5. Advanced Concepts for Mining Deep Ore 
Bodies (SRC) 

Objective : To identify major techno- 
logical barriers that currently prevent 
the mining of deep ore bodies. Investi- 
gations will evaluate the rock mechanics 
parameters associated with the deep 
deposits, determine innovative materials- 
handling concepts necessary for trans- 
porting ore and waste underground and to 
the surface, and provide mine design cri- 
teria for various mining methods , includ- 
ing stope and accessway designs. 

6. Flexible Tendon Ground Stabilization 
Concepts (SRC) 

Objective : To investigate concepts 
for using grouted cables for improving 
the stability of underground stopes and 



pillars and thereby enhancing recovery 
and production. Laboratory tests will be 
conducted to determine strength prop- 
erties of various grouts, epoxies, and 
support cables. A test site will be se- 
lected, and rock, property and stress data 
obtained. A finite-element model will 
be constructed to analyze the support 
potential of various cable-grout-rock 
combinations. 

7. Innovative Materials Transport 
Concepts (SRC) 

Objective : To investigate innovative 
surface mine haulage concepts for han- 
dling large volumes of ore and waste 
rock, which will be required to mine 
deeper and lower grade deposits in the 
future. Various concepts, such as air- 
film transport, flywheel power, and pneu- 
matic plug flow will be assessed for ap- 
plicability to mining conditions. 

8. Fragmentation of Hard Abrasive Rock 
(TCRC) 

Objective : To investigate the funda- 
mental parameters that influence effi- 
cient cutting of hard abrasive rock. Us- 
ing both a small- and large-scale linear 
cutting test bed, the role of cutting 
geometry, bit geometry, and rate of cut- 
ting will be investigated to determine 
conditions required for effective cutting 
and excavating in hard abrasive rock. 
This project is also associated with a' 
Health and Safety Technology Program 
project concerned with minimizing dust 
emissions in cutting operations. 

9. Application of Water Jet Technology 
for Selective Mining in Underground 
Mines (TCRC) 

Objective : To investigate the tech- 
nologies required to permit the use of 
low-pressure (10,000 psi or 690 bars) 
abrasive slurries (water jet concepts) 
for making deep narrow kerfs in hard 
rock. Research is intended to determine 
the optimum parameters to make such a 
cutting concept feasible in underground 
mining operations. 



1 . Optimized Equipment Use in Surfac e 
Mines (TCRC) 

Objective : To lower the operating 
costs in surface mines by completing 
the analysis and evaluation of an on- 
board continuous maintenance prognostics, 
alert, and diagnostic system for surface 
mining haulage trucks. Baseline docu- 
mentation supporting the concept will be 
provided, technology gaps will be identi- 
fied, and preliminary economic analyses 
will be performed. 

11. Enhanced Drilling Concepts (TCRC) 

Objective : To investigate and de- 
termine the chemical and electrochemical 
mechanisms involved in drilling opera- 
tions. Laboratory experiments will be 
conducted to determine the role of chem- 
ical and/or electrochemical reactions 
among drill materials, lubricants, and 
minerals in changing the performance in 
drilling operations. 

12. Thermal Fragmentation Concepts 
(TCRC) 

Objective : To investigate the po- 
tential of thermally induced stresses to 
improve the fragmentation of hard rock in 
mining operations. Research is investi- 
gating operating conditions that allow 
the use of electromagnetic energy to in- 
duce fragmentation in various mineral 
formations and rocks. Parameters such as 
the energy levels and the power densi- 
ties of lasers and/or microwaves will be 
studied to determine how to obtain opti- 
mium fragmentation in underground mining 
operations . 

13. Well Construction and Completion 
Techniques for In Situ Leaching 
(TCRC) 

Objective : To investigate branch 
well and horizontal drain hole concepts 
for in situ leaching of deep deposits. 
Laboratory tests will be conducted to de- 
termine the feasibility of modified whip- 
stocking concepts and the suitability of 
various casing materials. Investigations 



will establish basic engineering parame- 
ters necessary to advance two branch well 
concepts to the design layout stage. 

14. Fluid Flow, Detection and Control 
(TCRC) 

Objective : To investigate the fun- 
damental relationships of fluid flow in 
unsaturated zones and analyze the effec- 
tiveness of exploiting marginal hard-rock 
mineral deposits through in situ mining 
methods. Through laboratory testing, de- 
termine permeability values and solution 
flow capabilities and coverage in de- 
posits above the water table, and pro- 
duce basic computer simulation models to 
represent such conditions. Cost-benefit 
analyses relating to exploitation of 
marginal mineral resources will be 
conducted. 

15. Investigation of Use of Acoustics 
To Determine Geophysical and 
Geotechnical Properties of Rock 
(TCRC) 

Objective : To investigate fundamen- 
tal relationships between the acoustic 
properties of rock mass and the in situ 
state of stress in order to increase the 
understanding of the geophysical and geo- 
technical properties of rock mass and to 
lead to improved techniques for determin- 
ing in situ stress. 

16. Efficient Design Criteria for 
Improved Blast Initiation (TCRC) 

Objective : To investigate parame- 
ters influencing the effectiveness of 
blasting in surface rock. The research 
will determine the fundamental properties 
of blasting dynamics, including close-in 
source characterization, bias thole inter- 
actions, stress wave generation, fracture 
radiation patterns, and the influence of 
controlled, precise initiation timing 
over a wide range of intervals on these 
factors. An understanding of blasting 
performance criteria will be incorporated 
into production designs for improved 
fragmentation. 



Contract Projects 

1. Demonstration of Raise Driving 
at the Schwartzwalder Mine Using 
the Swedish Long-Hole Technique 
(SRC, Colorado School of Mines, 
J0205025) 

Objective : To demonstrate the Swed- 
ish long-hole raise driving technique in 
a U.S. mine to improve the operational, 
economic, and environmental factors of 
conventional raise driving. 

2. Compact Service Hoist System for 
Underground Metal and Nonmetal 
Mines (SRC, Foster-Miller 
Associates, H0202019) 

Objective : To develop a smaller and 
more portable personnel-rated hoist cap- 
able of hoisting small supplies or one 
or two persons into stopes. Small under- 
ground hoists presently available are 
either not person-rated, require a hoist 
person if person-rated, or require exten- 
sive raise structure such as guides or 
tracks. The hoist system has been com- 
pleted and will be field tested at an ap- 
propriate underground site. 

3. Compact Loader-Trammer for 
Underground Metal and Nonmetal 
Mines (SRC, Foster-Miller 
Associates, J0205037) 

Objective : To design and build a 
small load-tram unit that is capable of 
maneuvering in narrow veins and can be 
easily transported through existing 
raises. The machine has been completed 
and will be field tested at an appropri- 
ate underground site. 

4. Testing of a Mine Run Rock Conveying 
System (SRC, R. A. Hanson Co., 
J0295075) 

Objective : To design, fabricate, and 
test a conveying system capable of han- 
dling rock with a maximum lump size of 50 
to 60 in. 



5. Open Pit Ore Pass Design Manual (SRC, 
Engineers International, J0205041) 

Objective : To write a manual for 
design, construction, and maintenance of 
vertical and inclined ore pass systems 
for use in underground haulage from open- 
pit mines. 

6. Pillar Design for Vertical Crater 
Retreat Mining (SRC, University 
of Utah, J0215043) 

Objective : To provide design crite- 
ria for using the vertical crater retreat 
(VCR) method of mining in the United 
States. Investigations will evaluate the 
various rock types and geologic forma- 
tions applicable to the VCR method. Re- 
search results will provide design crite- 
ria for optimizing stope and pillar size 
in VCR mining while maximizing resource 
recovery and productivity. 

7. Placement and Evaluation of 
High-Modulus Backfill (SRC, 
Montana Tech, J0295052) 

Objective : To develop and test a 
method for placing high-modulus backfill 
in underground stopes and to evaluate its 
potential for supporting heavy ground and 
minimizing rock bursts. Tailings and 
waste rock were tested and a mining and 
filling plan developed. By use of this 
plan and computer modeling, mining and 
filling will be simulated to compare* 
high-modulus backfill support with con- 
ventional uncemented backfill support. 
Emphasis will be placed on modeling the 
stresses exerted in mine supports and 
raise structure as well as the stress 
concentrations surrounding the stope. 

8. Kinetic Modeling of Uranium Solution 
Mining (TCRC, Pennsylvania State 
University, J0100065) 

Objective : To define quantitative 
models, based on laboratory experiments, 
for the solution mining of uranium with 
an acidic lixiviant. The solubility of 
uranium peroxide and the oxidation of 
uraninite and pyrite by hydrogen per- 
oxide under specific conditions will be 



investigated and described. A simula- 
tion model of the in situ leaching pro- 
cess , which combines a quantitative geo- 
chemical model with a one-dimensional 
fluid flow simulation, will be produced 
and validated. 

9. Geologic Factors Effecting 
Vibrations From Surface Mine 
Blasting (TCRC, Vibratech 
Engineers Inc. , H0222009) 

Objective : To evaluate the geologic 
and soil conditions that create abnormal 
and severe transmission of blast vi- 
brations. To gather data on vibration 
transmission characteristics for vari- 
ous geological conditions and to utilize 
such data in developing improved blast 
design criteria that minimize the impact 
of blasting in the local environment 
while improving the efficiency of the 
blast in its mining objective. 

10. Oversize Breaker for Use With 
Portable Crushers (TCRC, 
Foster-Miller Associates, 
J0295063) 

Objective : To determine currently 
available technology for impact tools , 
and to evaluate the best concept for an 
oversize breaker system to be used with a 
portable underground crusher. A machine 
incorporating the optimum design will be 
constructed and tested. Components will 
be modified as needed. 

11. Study and Evaluation of Geologic 
Site Investigations for Tunnels 
(WO, Department of Transportation, 
J0113036) 

Objective : To investigate technolo- 
gies required to improve the planning and 
the construction of tunnels in a more 
cost-effective manner. Pretunneling site 
investigation of the geology is a major 
area of emphasis of this interagency 
sponsored research. The Bureau contrib- 
utes to this Department of Transportation 
coordinated study being conducted by 
the U.S. National Committee on Tunneling 
Technology. 



12. Support of the Continuing Activities 
of the U.S. National Committee 

on Tunneling Technology (WO, 
National Academy of Science, 
National Academy of Engineering, 
J0199025) 

Objective : To provide a continuing 
assessment of the state-of-the-art of 
tunneling, and to identify technical 
needs that might be met through research 
and development. The Bureau, along with 
other interested Government agencies, 
contributes support for the continuing 
activities of the U.S. National Committee 
on Tunneling Technology, which operates 
as part of the Assembly of Engineering, 
National Academy of Science and the Na- 
tional Academy of Engineering. 

13. Support of the Continuing Activities 
of the U.S. National Committee for 
Rock Mechanics (WO, National Academy 
of Science, J0199030) 

Objective : To recommend courses of 
action to governmental, industrial, and 
academic organizations in the rock me- 
chanics area. The Bureau is 1 of 14 Gov- 
ernmental bureaus that contribute to the 
support of the continuing activities of 
the U.S. National Committee for Rock Me- 
chanics , which operates as part of the 
National Research Council of the National 
Academy of Science. 

14. Participation in the Maintenance 
of the Cold Regions Research and 
Engineering Laboratory at Fox, AK 
(WO, U.S. Army, JO 134044, formerly 
S0188062) 

Objective : To provide operational 
and maintenance support of a unique fa- 
cility that provides an experimental lab- 
oratory to test technologies important to 
recovering the mineral potential in the 
permafrost conditions found in Alaska. 
The U.S. Army cold region facility lo- 
cated at Fox, AK, approximately 10 miles 
north of Fairbanks, includes an adit in 
permafrost in which a complete cross sec- 
tion of silt, gravel, and bedrock is ex- 
posed underground. The Bureau partici- 
pates with the University of Alaska and 



the Department of the Army in the funding 
for the maintenance of this facility, 
which makes available to the Bureau a 
permafrost research site in a state of 
readiness for use. 

15. Investigation of Borehole Mineral 
Assaying Technology (WO, U.S. 
Geological Survey, J0134032) 

Objective : To investigate and to 
establish new technologies for improving 
borehole mineral assaying methods. Em- 
phasis of this research is to design, 
construct, and evaluate an assaying bore- 
hole logging system that uses a neutron 
accelerator as its source of neutrons. 
Laboratory investigations will seek to 
identify optimum operating conditions 
(pulse rate) and the resultant nuclear 
reactions needed to improve delineation 
and determine composition of mineral 
deposits. 

COAL MINING TECHNOLOGY 

In-House Projects 

1. Geomechanics and Longwall Mining 
Method for Thick Coal Seams (DRC) 

Objective : To improve the recovery 
of thick and multiple coal seams by 
solving underground stability problems 
through basic geomechanical research 
applicable to western U.S. mining condi- 
tions. The study will address geomechan- 
ical problems associated with pillar sta- 
bility in both thick-seam room-and-pillar 
and longwall mining, stress concentra- 
tions (interaction) between multiple-seam 
workings , and competency of overburden 
and interburden. 

2. Mine Roof Support Studies (PRC) 

Objective : To establish fundamental 
engineering design data to better un- 
derstand the function of longwall roof 
support in maintaining the desired ground 
control and to derive criteria for more 
effective design and utilization of these 
systems relative to the geological condi- 
tions in which they are used. This proj- 
ect will construct a computer graphics 



program for a generic longwall roof sup- 
port, initiate a study to model a typical 
longwall roof support system using finite 
element modeling techniques, determine 
the actual loads in various members of 
a longwall shield, drill core holes to 
be used for geologic observations and as- 
sessment of interburden strata behavior, 
install instrumentation to measure the 
pressure distribution in the gob, and 
instrument a longwall panel with stress 
meters to assess the magnitude and loca- 
tion of the front abutment load zone. 

3. Cutting and Boring (PRC) 



standby mode. This project will complete 
documentation of final data runs of the 
HTRF and complete technical documentation 
of program functions. This will complete 
the current program for the facility. 

6. Longwall Automation (PRC) 

Objective : To advance the potential 
for automation in underground mining sys- 
tems. This investigation will evaluate 
feedback systems to monitor significant 
roof and coal parameters and feed the 
sensory information back to a remote 
operator of a longwall machine. 



Objective: To improve the productiv- 7. 



ity of coal mining machines by investi- 
gating the potential benefits of water- 
jet assisted cutting and boring. The 
project will identify the optimum water 
jet location, jet pressure, and trans- 
verse rate of movement. Studies will be 
conducted on a single cutting pick in- 
strumented to measure and record cutting 
force while cutting with and without 
water-jet assist. 

4. Underground Coal Mining Systems 
(Completion of Equipment Testing ) 
(PRC) 

Objective : To establish system per- 
formance requirements for underground 
coal mining extraction and transport sys- 
tems. Testing of prototype equipment 
will continue at the Mining Equipment 
Test Facility. Equipment under evalua- 
tion includes the automated extraction 
system, umbrella miner, hopper-feeder- 
bolter, and variable wall miner system. 
A data base will also be generated for 
the multiple unit continuous haulage sys- 
tem, flywheel powered shuttle car, mono- 
rail bridge conveyor, and the autotrack 
bridge conveyor train. Performance cri- 
teria will be established to compare 
these technological developments with 
state-of-the-art transport equipment in 
underground coal mining. 

5. Hydraulic Transport Research Facility 
(Complete Mothballing) (PRC) 

Objective : To place the Hydraulic 
Transport Research Facility (HTRF) in a 



Investigation of In-Mine Support 
Functions for Thick and Steeply 
Pitching Seams (PRC) 



Objective : To assess and define the 
haulage requirements for mining thick and 
steeply pitching coal seams and any asso- 
ciated human factors problems. The proj- 
ect will include a literature search and 
data collection on the transport systems 

as well as an examination of the tasks to 
be performed. 

8. Numerical Analysis Methods — Advancing 
Longwall-Packwall Interaction Study 
(SRC) 

Objective : To investigate concepts 
of new mining methods for nonconvention- 
al coal reserves located in the western 
United States. The project will use com- 
puter programs to model the mining meth- 
ods to determine the stress distribution 
in the rock and coal during each step 
of the excavation sequence and to evalu- 
ate possible modifications to the mining 
method to reduce the stress loadings. 

9. Coal Mining With Backfill (SRC) 

Objective : To investigate the tech- 
nologies required to obtain a greater ex- 
traction rate from fossil fuel deposits 
by using mine waste as backfill. The 
purpose of using mine waste as backfill 
is twofold. First, as an environmentally 
sound means of disposing of such solid 
waste; and second, as a support medium in 
underground openings , which permits the 
extraction of valuable fuels left in 



pillars or as support. Such use of mine 
backfill would increase the recovery of 
fuel resources in large ore bodies , and 
would stabilize the underground working 
once mining operations cease, thereby 
minimizing the impacts from subsidence. 
Fundamental investigations will be con- 
ducted to improve the understanding of 
the behavior of backfill structures and 
to improve their load carrying abilities. 

10. Fundamental Hydraulic Coal 
Fragmentation (TCRC) 

Objective : To investigate technolo- 
gies to provide efficient fragmentation 
of coal. Research will examine the use 
of abrasive slurries (water jet) for hy- 
draulic cutting of coal. 

Contract Projects 

A coal mining technology program was 
created in the Bureau in 1974, shortly 
after the oil embargo and the resulting 
Project Independence. With the formation 
of the Department of Energy in 1977, the 
program and its associated funding and 
staff were transferred to that agency. 
Appropriations for the program reached a 
peak of $56.7 million in 1978. In Sep- 
tember 1982, in the FY 1982 Supplemental 
Appropriations Bill (Public Law 97-257) , 
Congress returned the program to the De- 
partment of the Interior; a Secretarial 
order subsequently delegated responsibil- 
ity to the Bureau of Mines. 

All listings in this section are con- 
tracts begun in prior fiscal years and 
transferred from the Department of Energy 
to the Bureau. A major portion of these 
contracts are equipment development pro- 
grams that are nearing completion. The 
Bureau intends to bring all of the fol- 
lowing contracts to an orderly and logi- 
cal conclusion. If any new contract re- 
search efforts are initiated, they will 
be directed toward the high-risk, long- 
term aspects of coal mining problems. 
Major equipment development programs and 
demonstrations are more appropriate to be 
undertaken by the private sector. 



1. Longwall Mining Steep Seams (DRC, 
Snowmass Coal Co., J0233923) 

Objective : To stimulate the develop- 
ment of underground mining technology by 
demonstrating a system of mining steeply 
dipping (25° or more) coalbeds by long- 
wall methods and techniques capable of 
increasing coal production and resource 
recovery. 

2. Demonstration of Shield Type Longwall 
Supports (DRC, Kaiser Steel Corp., 
J0233912) 

Objective : To provide operational, 
safety, and ground control data on the 
use of shield supports under conditions 
of deep cover and sandstone roof. Opera- 
tional, safety, and minimal roof control 
data are being collected for the Govern- 
ment shields at the 18L longwall panel in 
the Sunnyside Mine in Utah. 

3. In-Mine Trial of Longwall Multilift 
Mining (DRC, Mid-Continent Resources, 
Inc., J0233913) 

Objective : To further the develop- 
ment of underground mining technology 
through an in-mine trial of the multilift 
method of mining thick (approximately 20 
ft) western U.S. coalbeds. Feasibility 
studies indicate the multilift mining 
method is capable of increasing coal pro- 
duction and resource recovery. 

4. Water Jet Assisted Cutterhead for 
Coal Measure Rocks (PRC, Colorado 
School of Mines, J0233900) 

Objective : To design, test, and 
evaluate a high efficiency cutterhead for 
use on a coal mine entry development ma- 
chine. High efficiency is to be obtained 
by utilizing drag bits assisted by low- 
pressure water. Phase I was to design an 
optimum jet assisted drag bit cutting 
system and to verify its validity in the 
laboratory. Phase II is to develop and 
test a rotary cutting head utilizing the 
jet assisted drag bit cutting system. 



10 



5. Operation of Mine Equipment Test 
Facility (PRC, Boeing Services, 
International, J0333956) 

Objective : To operate and maintain 
the Mine Equipment Test Facility. To 
provide support for R&D programs at the 
Pittsburgh (PA) Research Center, which 
will utilize the Mine Equipment Test Fa- 
cility, taking advantage of its unique 
capabilities. This will enable advancing 
production and safety technology for un- 
derground coal mining in order to foster 
improvements in mine productivity and 
health and safety. 

6. Characterization of Subsidence Over 
Pillar Extraction Panels (PRC, GAI 
Consultants, J0233920) 

Objective : To determine the geomet- 
ric and chronological relationships 
between pillar extraction mining, subsi- 
dence, mine stress, and overburden de- 
flection at the Kitt Mine in West Vir- 
ginia. Comprehensive measurements of 
subsidence, mine stress changes, overbur- 
den deflection, and changes in aquifer 
characteristics are being measured at the 
Kitt Mine pillar extraction panel. The 
measurements will improve basic under- 
standing of subsidence mechanisms and 
provide data for calibration of an ana- 
lytical model. 

7 . Characterization of Subsidence Over 
Longwall Panels (PRC, D'Appolonia 
Consulting Engineers, J0233918) 

Objective : To determine the geomet- 
ric and chronological relationships be- 
tween longwall mining and subsidence, 
mine stress , and overburden deflection at 
the Kitt Mine in West Virginia. Compre- 
hensive measurements of subsidence, mine 
level stress changes, and overburden de- 
flection are being made at two longwall 
panels in the Kitt Mine. The measure- 
ments are intended to improve basic un- 
derstanding of subsidence mechanisms and 
provide data to calibrate analytical 
structural models of subsidence. 



8. Hopper-Feeder Bolter (PRC, 
ESD Corp., J0333940) 

Objective : To test the capability 
of a prototype multifunctional machine 
system as an interface vehicle between a 
continuous miner and a face haulage sys- 
tem, and a bolter machine placing bolts 
for permanent roof support alongside a 
two-pass continuous miner. 

9. Automated Bridge Conveyor Train 
(PRC, Foster-Miller Associates, 
J0333913) 

Objective : To develop and test a 
prototype continuous face haulage system 
comprised of alternating mobile bridge 
carriers and extensible piggyback bridge 
conveyors that are automatically guided 
by microprocessor control and sensors in 
a room-and-pillar underground coal mine 
plan. 

10. Coal Injector for Coarse Slurry 
Transport (PRC, Foster-Miller 
Associates, J0333914) 

Objective : To conceive, design, fa- 
bricate, and test a device for the con- 
trolled injection of run-of-mine coal 
into an operating hydraulic pipeline in 
an underground coal mine. The device 
should do this without degradation of the 
coal, without leakage of water from the 
pipeline, and without causing plugging 
of the line. Controlled injection means 
that the feed rate can be regulated, 
ranging up to the output capability of 
continuous mining machinery, for the pur- 
pose of controlling slurry concentration. 
The device shall be adaptable to verti- 
cal, sloped, or horizontal pipelines. 

11. Variable Wall Miner System (PRC, 
Southwest Research Institute, 
J0333951) 

Objective : To develop and test a 
novel coal extraction and transport pro- 
totype designed for use on longwall faces 
or in the second mining of coal pillars. 



11 



The variable wall mining system consists 
of a series of side cutting augers that 
are connected end to end and distributed 
across a coal panel. Supplying rotary 
power at the end of the auger string 
and anchorage from conventional longwall 
roof supports , the augers are sequential- 
ly thrust into the face and then lifted 
to the roof to extract the coal in a con- 
tinuous manner. The augers not only cut 
but also transport the coal. 

12. Minos Mine Monitoring System Site 
(PRC, Barnes and Tucker Coal Co., 
J0133921) 

Objective : To provide an operating 
coal mine for the installation of the 
Minos monitoring and control system. The 
Bureau has provided Barnes and Tucker 
with the use of the National Coal Board 
developed Minos monitoring system, in re- 
turn Barnes and Tucker will allow access 
to the data and information arising from 
this trial. 

13. Industry Assessment of Minos Mine 
Monitoring System (PRC, Bituminous 
Coal Research, J0133922) 

Objective : To provide preliminary 
engineering and assistance for the site 
selection, installation, startup, and 
operation of the Minos system and then 
provide a 3-yr evaluation of the system. 
Bituminous Coal Research National Labora- 
tory has provided the necessary engineer- 
ing and assistance leading to the instal- 
lation and operation of the Minos system 
at Barnes and Tucker Mine No. 20. The 
3-yr evaluation phase is now in progress. 

14. Minos (PRC, National Coal Board, 
J0133930) 

Objective : To develop, install, and 
test a computer controlled mine monitor- 
ing and control system. The National 
Coal Board has developed and installed a 
Minos monitoring and control system at 
Barnes and Tucker Mine No. 20. This tri- 
al will allow for the evaluations of the 
Minos system during operation in a U.S. 
coal mine. 



15. Appraisal of Models in Coal 
Management (PRC, Columbia 
University, J0133908) 

Objective : To determine the impact 
of decision technology on policy and 
decisionmaking within the Federal coal 
management program, and ascertain the 
relative importance of behavioral, organ- 
izational, and systems-specific factors 
in determining implement at ional success. 
In particular, mathematical-economic mod- 
els and computer data bases, as a means 
of support to decisionmaking, will be 
appraised. 

16. Advanced Coal Extraction System 
(PRC, Jet Propulsion Laboratory, 
J0134054) 

Objective : To define performance 
and design characteristics of advanced 
underground coal mining systems. 

17. Coal Mine Productivity (PRC, 
Carnegie-Mellon University, 
J0133924) 

Objective : To examine the relation- 
ship between underground coal mining pro- 
ductivity and human resource utiliza- 
tion and managerial practices , in order 
to determine how they vary over time 
and across mine characteristics of seam 
height, size, mining technology, and 
ownership. Provide initial technologi- 
cal support to companies that wish to 
develop new policy to enhance mining 
productivity. 

18. Dynamic Coalbed Reservoir Measure 
(PRC, U.S. Steel Corp., J0233927) 

Objective : To develop realistic ap- 
proach to near-mine degasification in the 
Warrior Basin. The work will measure 
coalbed pressure and fluid saturation; 
drainage rate as a function of pressure 
and fluid saturation conditions; and 
ability to predict borehole degasifica- 
tion performance using the information 
gathered. 



12 



19. Methane Gas Mine Inflow Prediction 
(PRC, U.S. Steel Corp., J0333952) 

Objective : To develop and demon- 
strate mathematical coal-methane modeling 
capabilities that are required to plan 
coal mining ventilation and mining opera- 
tions systems. Make mine inflow rate 
predictions based on primary controlling 
factors and use these rates to formulate 
one or more preliminary methane models. 
After field testing to determine useful- 
ness as a predictive tool, the model(s) 
will be adjusted to increase authenticity 
and presented in a form directly usable 
by mine planners. 

20. Concentration Sensor For Coal-Water 
Mixture (PRC, Science Applications, 
Inc., J0333933) 

Objective ; To design, fabricate, 
and test four concentration sensors for 
the accurate measurement of coal-refuse- 
water concentrations in haulage pipe- 
lines. All of these sensors are desig- 
nated "research sensors," as performance 
is to be strongly emphasized in their de- 
velopment. A small research sensor, ap- 
plicable to a 10-in-diameter pipeline, 
will be designed, fabricated, and tested. 
Contingent upon the results of the small 
research sensor tests, a large research 
sensor, applicable to a 12-in-diameter 
pipeline, will be developed. The final 
phase entails reconditioning and delivery 
of hardware. 

21. Flywheel-Powered Shuttle Car 
(PRC, ESD Corp., J0333911) 

Objective : To develop and test a 
nontethered, flywheel-powered face haul- 
age vehicle for use in underground coal 
mines. 

22. Umbrella Miner (PRC, Fairchild 
Research and Development, 
J0133926) 

Objective : To develop and test a 
novel continuous mining machine prototype 
capable of coal extraction and simultane- 
ous placement of permanent roof support 



in underground coal mines for seams 48 to 
72 in. in height. 

23. Monorail Bridge Conveyor (PRC, 
Goodman Equipment Corp . , 
J0333917) 

Objective : To develop and test a 
unique prototype continuous face haulage 
system composed of multiple belt bridge 
conveyors suspended from a special mono- 
rail bolted to the mine roof. 

24. Hydrotransport Boost Pump 
Development (PRC, Foster-Miller 
Associates, J0133934) 

Objective : To develop a low-profile 
pressure increasing pump for hydrotrans- 
port in thin-seam underground coal mines , 
which can tolerate fluctuating flows, 
varying solids concentration, large sol- 
ids particles, and entrained air while 
minimizing wear and solids degradation. 

25. Coal Injector (PRC, Inger soil -Rand 
Research, Inc., J0333920) 

Objective : To conceive, design, 
fabricate, and test a device for the con- 
trolled injection of run-of-mine coal 
into an operating hydraulic pipeline 
in an underground coal mine. The device 
should do this without degradation of the 
coal, without leakage of water from the 
pipeline, and without causing plugging 
of the line. Controlled injection means 
that the feed rate can be regulated, 
ranging up to the output capability of 
continuous mining machinery, for the pur- 
pose of controlling slurry concentration. 
The device shall be adaptable to verti- 
cal, sloped, or horizontal pipelines. 

26. Returning Coal Waste Underground 
(PRC, Ketron, Inc., J0133928) 

Objective : To assess feasibility of 
total integrated mining operation at a 
selected minesite with all disposal and 
at least part of the coal processing fa- 
cilities underground. Conduct a trial 
for verification of costs and benefits of 
using existing industrial equipment for 



13 



disposal of coal mine waste underground 
in an active coal mine. 

27. Jet Boost Pump for Hydraulic 
Transport (PRC, University of 
Minnesota, J0333928) 

Objective : To conduct tests that 
will determine preferred dimensions and 
operating parameters for the combined 
peripheral jet pump and a centrifugal 
pump when serving as in-line boost pump 
for transporting raw coal slurry in hori- 
zontal and vertical pipelines. In phase 
I, model jet pump shall be designed and 
fabricated to fit a 3-in-diameter pipe- 
line and the model system then will be 
tested for both horizontal and verti- 
cal flows. Evaluation of effectiveness 
and efficiency shall be done on the to- 
tal system and on three subsystems: the 
jet pump, the permeable-wall strainer, 
and the centrifugal pump. In the first 
phase, preferred dimensional values of 
a boost pump for water should be estab- 
lished through experimental studies. 
Several configurations shall be tested to 
provide performance curves by which the 
best configurations may be determined. 
In the second phase the parts of the 
"best" pump configuration shall be fabri- 
cated and the pump system shall be evalu- 
ated with run-of-mine coal slurry for 
both horizontal and upward vertical flow. 

28. Demonstration of Longwall Mining 
(PRC, Old Ben Coal Co., J0333949) 

Objective : To demonstrate that the 
coalbeds in the Southern Illinois Coal 
Basin can be mined by longwall methods 
using shield type roof supports. Work 
on two longwall panels will include 
studies on rock mass behavior and surface 
subsidence. 

29. Near Mine Stimulation Techniques 
(PRC, Dames and Moore, J0333908) 

Objective : To gather information 
pertaining to stimulation, providing a 
sound basis upon which mine planning de- 
cisions can be made. Specific objectives 
include measurement of results and re- 
finements of designs that yield general 



improvement to degasification technology. 
Manage the drilling completion, abandon- 
ment, and underground investigation of 12 
vertical boreholes, two boreholes each 
with six separate coal horizons repre- 
senting a cross section of major coal 
producing areas. 

30. Evaluation of Cross Ridge 
Mountaintop Mining (PRC, 
Mathtech, Inc., J0133936) 

Objective : To design concepts for a 
cross-ridge mountaintop removal mining 
system in which mining progresses in a 
direction perpendicular to the long axis 
of the ridge line; to subject the pro- 
posed concepts to technical-economic 
feasibility and environmental impact 
analyses; and develop a field demonstra- 
tion program for the most promising 
concept. 

31. Potential Recoverable Anthracite 
Resources (PRC, Resource 
Technologies Corp. , J0333932) 

Objective : To define the physical 
size and geographic distribution of an- 
thracite coal resources in Pennsylvania 
that are potentially recoverable using 
surface and underground mining methods 
and analyze the potential market value. 
Study mining methods and coalbed parame- 
ters and prepare a final report to iden- 
tify anthracite resources , classified 
by relative minability and economic 
feasibility. 

32. Miner-Bolter System (SRC, 
Inger soil-Rand Research, Inc., 
J0133927) 

Objective : To fabricate two bolting 
modules, a right- and a left-hand unit. 
The first has been designed, built, and 
tested. The second unit will be built as 
a second-generation bolter module that 
can be applied to a variety of mining 
systems. It will be simplified to im- 
prove the maintenance requirements , and 
reduced in size so that it will be more 
suitable for application as a component 
in a miner bolter. 



14 



33. Surface Mining Optimization Model 
(SRC, Montana State University, 
J0233922) 

Objective : To modify and expand a 
computer-based surface mining and recla- 
mation planning system (SEAMPLAN) to pro- 
vide a practical planning tool for mine 
operators that can be used for both 
short- and long-range mine planning, and 
that can be readily adapted to mining in- 
dustry and Bureau minicomputer systems. 

34. Continuous Surface Mining Machine 
Using Impact Breakers (SRC, 
Foster-Miller Associates, J0233907) 

Objective : To determine the feasi- 
bility of developing a continuous surface 
mining machine utilizing impact breakers 
in its cutting head, which is capable of 



cutting and loading from 1,000 to 3.000 
tons per hour from 10- to 20-ft-thick 
coal seams and/or rock strata without re- 
course to blasting. 

35. Optimal Multiple Seam Dragline 
(SRC, Fluor Mining and Metals, 
Inc., J0233903) 

Objective : To develop methods of 
optimizing dragline operating procedures 
in multiple seam area surface mines that 
will typically result in productivity 
increases exceeding 5 pet. Effort will 
result in development of two products: 

(1) design manual containing planning in- 
structions for mine operators' use in de- 
signing multiple seam surface mines and 

(2) report of specific mine designs that 
emphasize optimized procedures to enhance 
productivity. 



RESOURCE CONSERVATION TECHNOLOGY 



CONTROLLING MINE WASTES 
In-House Projects 

1 . Prediction and Control of Acid 
Drainage at Surface Mines (PRC) 

Objective : To provide techniques 
and strategies to reduce or mitigate acid 
mine drainage. Empirical procedures for 
predicting acid drainage in advance of 
mining will be assessed and expanded. 
Investigations of the influence of site 
hydrology and oxygen availability on acid 
production will identify oxygen levels 
that limit the rate of pyrite oxidation 
and determine the patterns and rates of 
mass transport in spoil and refuse. 

2. Reducing Acid Mine Drainage by 
Inhibition of Bacteria (PRC) 

Objective : To investigate proce- 
dures to effectively control acid drain- 
age at its source. Research will focus 
on bactericidal techniques including fur- 
ther development of surfactant treatment 
in solution and controlled release forms 
and evaluation of potential bacterial 
inhibitors suitable for use in under- 
ground mines. 



3. Generic Modeling of Waste 
Embankments and Backfill 
Structures (SRC) 

Objective : To define and assess 
techniques and strategies for structural 
stability of mine and mill wastes from 
various extraction operations and to pro- 
vide control methods that meet environ- 
mental and permitting requirements. Ana- 
lytic models that provide for the design, 
performance, and maintenance of surface 
waste embankments and underground back- 
filling structures will be tested using 
mathematical analysis, computer codes, 
and centrifuge testing. The research 
will provide, through laboratory and 
field experimentation, a bridge between 
idealized concepts and practical applica- 
tions. This research effort is cofunded 
by the Health and Safety Technology 
Program. 

4. Geotechnical Characteristics 
of Mine Waste Structures (SRC) 

Objective : To improve the perform- 
ance of mine waste structures by produc- 
ing a new technique for establishing the 
engineering parameters of waste materials 
through computer-aided analysis of soil 



15 



properties. Prediction of mine waste be- 
havior will be improved by evaluating the 
competency, limitations, and adaptations 
of the cone penetrometer, electrical 
probe, and impedance analyzer tests for 
producing more accurate data for standard 
stability analyses. 

5. Investigation of Geophysical Methods 
for Measuring Hydrologic Variables 
(TCRC) 

Objective : To determine and verify 
electrical resistivity theories and meth- 
ods that quantify the water storage and 
transport capacities of jointed, near- 
surface formations. Surface geophysical 
techniques will be evaluated to demon- 
strate a comprehensive field technique 
for mining hydrology applications in mea- 
suring geologic-hydrologic parameters. 

6. Dewatering Strategies for Mines 
in Fractured Formations (TCRC) 

Objective : To improve ground water 
control strategies for mine development 
through upgrading of an existing interac- 
tive computer model of mine hydrology to 
include layered aquifers hydraulically 
linked by vertical fracture conduits. 
A hydrology model will be produced that 
will aid in the design of dewatering 
systems for slopes near flooded mine 
workings . 

7. Controlled Burnout of Coal 
Waste Banks (PRC) 

Objective : To validate new concepts 
for controlling and extinguishing coal 
waste bank fires through field and labo- 
ratory studies. Construct a burnout con- 
trol system at a site of a burning coal 
waste bank, and evaluate the equipment 
designs and effectiveness of the con- 
trolled in situ burning process. 

8. Renton No. 1 Mine Fire, Allegheny 
County, PA (PRC) 

Objective : To assist the Office of 
Surface Mining in applying the Bureau's 
water injection-fume exhaustion (WIFE) 
technique to an abandoned mine fire. 



Establish and implement a WIFE system at 
the Renton No. 1 Mine and evaluate meth- 
odology for monitoring the extinguishment 
process. 

Contract Projects 

1. Study of the Hydrology and Water 
Quality of Watersheds Subjected to 
Surface Mining (DRC, U.S. Department 
of Agriculture and Ohio Agriculture 
Research and Development Center, 
J0166054) 

Objective : To obtain and analyze 
hydrologic and water quality data from 
four treatment watersheds , 30 to 60 acres 
in size, scheduled for mining. Hydrolog- 
ic and water quality data will also be 
obtained and analyzed from erosion and 
treatment plots for 2 to 3 yr and a con- 
trol watershed for 4 yr. The hydro- 
geology of the watersheds and the water 
quality characteristics of the aquifer 
systems for premining and post-surface- 
mining conditions will be described, and 
a ground water model for simulation 
of the ground water flow conditions and 
movement of solutes for the premining and 
post-surface-mining conditions will be 
produced. 

2. Investigation of Mechanics of Acid 
Mine Formation in Underground Coal 
Mine Drainage (PRC, Ultrasys terns, 
Inc., J0333937) 

Objective : To determine the mechan- 
ics of acid production by laboratory and 
field investigations. Samples obtained 
from eight coal seams were analyzed for 
pyrite and carbonate content and sub- 
jected to laboratory weathering tests. 
Results of the research will be used to 
develop a method for estimating in-mine 
acid production. 

3. Treatment of Mine Drainage From 
Abandoned Mines by Biological 
Iron Oxidation and Limestone 
Neutralization (PRC, Peer 
Consultants, Inc., J0113033) 

Objective : To determine if the natu- 
ral iron removal capacity of sphagnum 



16 



moss bogs can be used in conjunction with 
neutralization by limestone rubble as a 
low-maintenance treatment for acid mine 
drainage. Includes determining changes 
in water quality as acidic drainage 
passes through the system, viability of 
the transplanted moss, and conditional 
requirements for successful treatment. 

4. Premine Prediction of Acid Drainage 
Potential (PRC, Engineers 
International, J0328037) 

Objective : To predict postmining 
drainage characteristics from a minesite 
based on the physical and chemical char- 
acteristics of the site prior to mining. 
Data will be obtained from at least 30 
surface mines including permit informa- 
tion, background surface and ground water 
quality, and hydrologic characteristics. 
Data collected will be compared and cor- 
related with representative water quality 
samples from each site and measurable 
parameters identified that most effec- 
tively predict discharge quality. A min- 
imum of three predictive schemes will be 
evaluated. 

5. Effects of Coal Mine Subsidence on 
Ground Water Aquifer in Northern 
Appalachia (PRC, Science Management 
Engineering, JO 199063) 

Objective : To provide a comprehen- 
sive hydrogeologic record of the changes 
in the ground water systems above and ' 
adjacent to an active longwall section as 
subsidence occurs. 

6. Impact of Mining on Ground Water 
in the Globe-Miami Copper Mining 
District (SRC, Central Arizona 
Association of Governments, 
J0205039) 

Objective : To gather and evaluate 
ground water data in the Globe-Miami cop- 
per mining district using existing data 
and further field tests, and to develop a 
base for a reasonable water management 
program in the district. This contract 
Is a small part of a multiagency-industry 
program effort. 



7. Evaluation of Best Management 
Practices for Solid Mining 
Waste Disposal (SRC, Pedco 
Environmental, H0222003) 

Objective : To determine the best 
management practices for disposal of mine 
waste generated during the production of 
various ores (copper, iron, lead, nickel, 
molybdenum, zinc, phosphate, and uranium) 
by utilizing results from an extensive 
monitoring program for ground and surface 
water and air quality. EPA is the lead 
agency for this study with the Bureau as 
a cooperator. 

8. Monitoring of Ground Water in the 
Tucson Copper Mining District (SRC, 
Pima Association of Governments, 
J0215006) 

Objective : To monitor and analyze 
ground water data in the Tucson copper 
mining district and develop a further ba- 
sis for water management decisions. Pa- 
rameters monitored will include water 
quality, quantity, and direction of flow. 

9. Developing a Slurry Fill for 
Modified In Situ Oil Shale 
Mining (SRC, Rio Blanco Oil 
Shale Co., J0295046) 

Objective : To develop an under- 
ground slurry filling system to minimize 
surface and underground environmental 
disturbance, and to render in situ shale 
rubble virtually impermeable and minimize 
contamination of the ground water. Meth- 
ods will be evaluated to bind the spent 
shale into a coherent mass sufficiently 
strong to resist surface subsidence. A 
maximum amount of the retorted shale ma- 
terial will be used as the major constit- 
uent of the fill, thereby minimizing or 
eliminating disposal of spent shale on 
the surface. 

10. Mine Waste Location by Satellite 
Imagery (SRC, Science Systems 
Applications, Inc., J0208030) 

Objective : To establish the poten- 
tial for using satellite (Landsat) data 



17 



for detecting active coal and metal- 
nonmetal waste and tailings disposal site 
and updating data contained in waste em- 
bankment inventories. 

11. Investigations of the Flow 

Characteristics of Mine Tailings 
(SRC, University of California, 
J0285039) 



results of the investigation will be ana- 
lyzed to design realistic models that may 
be used for underdrain systems. 

15. Removing Heavy Metal Pollutants 
From Runoff Water Draining Lean 
Copper-Nickel Ore Stockpiles 
(TCRC, Minnesota Department of 
Natural Resources, J0205047) 



Objective : To determine the flow 
characteristics of mine tailings, and the 
probable extent of travel when a mass of 
mine tailings liquifies and flows. Case 
studies of mass flow failures of mine 
waste embankments will be back-analyzed. 



12. Investigation of the Geochemical 
and Hydrological Transformation 
in Backfilled Uranium Mines (SRC, 
University of New Mexico, J0225002) 16. 

Objective : To investigate cementa- 
tion processes , contamination transforma- 
tion, and ground water movement in under- 
ground uranium mines for application in 

(1) maximizing the percentage of tail- 
ings that can be disposed of underground, 

(2) isolating potential contaminants from 
the ground water system, and (3) provid- 
ing acceptable mine working conditions. 



13. Instrumentation for Remotely 
Detecting the Placement of 
Injected Backfill (TCRC, Earth 
Tech Research Corp., J0295061) 

Objective : To improve monitoring 
capability for detecting the placement of 
backfill in underground voids in connec- 
tion with blind backfilling operations. 
Recommendations shall be made for the de- 
sign, development, and demonstration of 
the most practical and technically feasi- 
ble monitoring system. 

14. Cone Piezometer Field Test (TCRC, 
Geotechnical Engineering and 
Mining, S0221076) 

Objective : To obtain data on hydro- 
logic flow patterns and physical property 
measurements for water-saturated, loosely 
consolidated tailings materials. The 



Objective : To evaluate low-cost , 
low-labor (passive) techniques for remov- 
ing specific heavy metal irons from run- 
off draining ore stockpiles, waste rock 
piles, and adits to underground opera- 
tions. Laboratory tests utilizing vari- 
ous materials such as sawdust, peat, 
tailings, etc., will be conducted to de- 
termine the best collecting agent. 



Demonstration of Aquifer Dewatering 
Coordinated With Planning and 
Development of a New Underground 
Coal Mine (TCRC, Moody Associates, 
J0225014) 



Objective : To design and imple- 
ment a mine dewatering operation that 
(1) takes advantage of naturally occuring 
high permeability fracture zones, (2) is 
coordinated with plans for mine develop- 
ment, and (3) results in a cost effective 
means of controlling mine water and re- 
ducing mine drainage. 



17. Development of a Dewatering System 
for Controlling Fracture Dominated 
Inflow for Acid Mine Drainage 
Abatement (TCRC, Skelly and Loy, 
H0202002) 

Objective : To design and field-test 
a pilot-scale fracture dewatering system 
for acid mine drainage. Construction of 
dewatering wells at the Sunshine Mine 
test site is completed. Typical off- 
fracture wells in the project area have a 
24-h substainable yield of 10 to 25 gpm, 
whereas wells located in the fracture 
zones produce at an average rate of 300 
gpm. The enhanced yields of dewatering 
wells drilled in major fracture zones 
have clearly been demonstrated. 



18 



18. Development of Environmentally 
Attractive Leachants (TCRC~ 
University of of Texas, H0282016) 



Objective : To determine the optimum 
constituents from several candidates for 
leachants to be used in extracting ura- 
nium from sandstone uranium ores. It is 
anticipated that the new leachant will 
facilitate the restoration of the ground 
water quality after leaching. 

19. Tug Valley Flood Study (WO, U.S. 
Geological Survey, J0100052) 

Objective : To assess the relative 
effect of land use on the surface water 
hydrology of the Big Sandy River Basin in 
West Virginia, Kentucky, and Virginia 
with emphasis on the Tug Fork. 

20. Water Purification With 
Cyanobacteria (WO, Morehouse 
College, J0134023) 

Objective : To investigate the po- 
tential of certain blue-green algae 
strains to remove heavy metals from sur- 
face drainage contaminated by mining 
operations. The research will focus on 
the determination of the rate of uptake 
of specific heavy metals by the algae 
strains cultured in enriched media. The 
long-range goal of this investigation 
is to provide information basic to the 
development of a low-cost technology sys- 
tem of water purification of specific 
metal contaminants related to mineral 
operations. 

CONSERVING LAND RESOURCES 

In-House Projects 

1 . Characterization of Surface 
Subsidence Over Underground 
Mines (DRC) 

Objective : To provide technology 
for preserving the quality of surface 
land areas overlying active and inactive 
underground coal mining operations and 
maintain a subsidence information data 
base. Measure and characterize surface 
effects of subsidence over single and 



multiple coal seam longwall panels in 
Utah and at steeply pitching longwall 
operations in Colorado. Compare results 
of mathematical modeling with actual sub- 
sidence measurements to assist in deter- 
mining geological mining parameters that 
may be responsible for subsidence varia- 
tions in different coal mines in the ma- 
jor U.S. coal mining regions. 

2. Subsidence Reference Guide (DRC) 

Objective : To compile an annotated 
bibliography of coal mine subsidence ref- 
erences for use by coal mine operators in 
complying with regulations of the Office 
of Surface Mining (OSM). This work will 
be done in cooperation with OSM and will 
be published as a Bureau of Mines Infor- 
mation Circular. 

3. Subsidence Prediction Techniques 
for Underground Coal Mines (PRC) 

Objective : To provide technology for 
preserving of the quality of surface land 
areas overlying abandoned and active 
underground coal mining operations. 
Through application of experience and 
standard methodology, develop techniques 
for determining the size and shape of 
surface land movements associated with 
longwall and room-and-pillar coal mining 
operations. 

4. Tri-State Demonstration Project 
Management (RORC) 

Objective : To complete a demonstra- 
tion project to close or seal open mine 
shafts in the Tri-State lead-zinc mining 
areas using precast or site-cast concrete 
slabs , cones , pyramids , or other shaped 
closure devices. Following placement of 
the closure devices, worksites will be 
periodically monitored, and a summary re- 
port on the near-term stability of the 
sites will be prepared. 

5. Revegatation Reference Guide (TCRC) 

Objective : To provide an annotated 
bibliography on reclamation-revegetation 
of coal mine spoil for the Office of Sur- 
face Mining and the coal mining industry. 



19 



Information and data will be compiled on 
the reclamation and revegetation of coal 
mined lands. A reference manual on re- 
vegetation for disturbed coal mine lands 
will be developed in close coordination 
with OSM and will be published as a Bu- 
reau of Mines Information Circular. 

Contract Projects 

1. Surveying and Monitoring of Mine 
Subsidence at the Shoemaker Mine 
(PRC, Edkins Surveying, S0328018) 

Objective : To provide a subsidence 
data base by obtaining profiles of the 
surface over the Shoemaker Mine. To date 
this is one of the most complete data 
bases for the United States. 



5. Enhancing Short- and Long-Range 
Availability of Nitrogen and 
Phosphorus on Topsoil-Def icient 
Mine Spoil (PRC, Virginia 
Polytechnic Institute and 
State University, J0100071) 

Objective : To conduct a series of 
experiments and technology transfer ac- 
tivities designed to improve short- and 
long-range availability of nitrogen and 
phosphorus in topsoil-def icient spoils, 
and to deliver research findings to mine 
operators, regulatory officials, and 
other interested individuals through dem- 
onstration plots and written materials. 
This project will be targeted to steep 
slope spoils in Appalachia where topsoil 
is in short supply. 



2. Development of an Integrated System 
of Monitoring for the Detection of 
Imminent Subsidence (PRC, Engineers 
International, J0134022) 

Objective : To investigate the state- 
of-the art methodology and equipment for 
detection of imminent subsidence. The 
selected study area will be northeastern 
Pennsylvania. 

3. Surface Coal Mine Spoil Stability 
Study, Eastern Coal Province 
(PRC, Law Engineering and Testing, 
J0395011) 

Objective : To quantify and assess 
the slope instability problems associated 
with coal surface mining in the eastern 
province and to recommend spoil placement 
techniques that provide slope stability. 

4. Development of Preliminary Predictive 
Model for Room-and-Pillar Subsidence 
(PRC, MRM Engineers, J0100073) 

Objective : To develop a preliminary 
predictive model for the process of sur- 
face subsidence over underground coal 
mine room-and-pillar workings. The model 
should have application for mining situa- 
tions using first mining only and situa- 
tions using both first and second mining. 



6. Breeding of Improved Grasses for 
Mined-Land Reclamation (SLRC, U.S. 
Department of Agriculture, J0205024) 



Objective : To make available to the 
Bureau the improved plant stock being de- 
veloped by selective breeding for metal 
tolerance. Bureau personnel will test 
these plants , in a greenhouse , on lead- 
zinc tailings and on a coal site. The 
work is in cooperation with the Agricul- 
tural Crops Research Laboratory located 
in Logan, UT. 

7. Development of Systems for Leveling 
and Contouring Abandoned Spoil 
Banks (SRC, Golder Associates, Inc., 
J0295048) 

Objective : To investigate and eval- 
uate the economic and engineering fea- 
sibility of innovative systems for level- 
ing and recontouring abandoned spoil 
banks. The work will determine the 
applicability of present reclamation sys- 
tems and large material-handling equip- 
ment for recontouring applications in 
abandoned coal lands. It will also de- 
velop innovative machine and/ or system 
concepts to meet deficiencies related to 
recontouring abandoned coal lands. 



20 



8. Computer Simulation Model for 
Surface Mine Reclamation 
Planning (SRC, Pennsylvania 
State University, J0295005) 

Objective : To extend the capabili- 
ties of the existing open pit material 
handling simulator (OPMHS) to provide the 
logic necessary to simulate techniques 
for spoil leveling, highwall reduction, 
topsoil handling, and rock removal. The 
expansion of the OPMHS will provide the 
Bureau with the capability to test re- 
search findings from the mining system 
program in order to assess the feasibil- 
ity of programs and to determine the need 
for further research in this area. 

9. Demonstration of Modular Irrigation 
Systems for Reclaimed Strip Mined 
Lands (SRC, Sherman & Kinkead, 
H0222004) 

Objective : To establish design cri- 
teria and specifications for supplemental 
irrigation systems, and based on this 
criteria, develop and test operating sys- 
tems at surface coal mines. Each irriga- 
tion system shall be evaluated according 
to its technical and economic feasibil- 
ity. An irrigation system technology 
will be developed for application in sur- 
face coal mine land reclamation to sup- 
plement natural precipitation in arid and 
semi-arid regions. 



to reduce fuel consumption in 
recontouring work. 



mined-land 



10. 



Production, Engineering, 
Development, and Demonstration 
of the Draft Power Sensor (SRC, 
Southwest Research Institute, 
H0292016) 



Objective: 



To demonstrate and 



transfer to the mining industry an im- 
proved version of a draft power sensor 
to be attached to the dozers used in 
regrading spoil during mining. Previous 
research developed and tested a prototype 
sensor. The results indicated potential 
regrading cost savings and productivity 
increases. This project seeks to show 
the mining industry the merits of the 
system to increase dozer production and 



11. Reclamation of Tailings Basins 
Resulting From Copper-Nickel 
Milling (TCRC, Barr Engineering, 
J0205050) 

Objective : To evaluate vegetation 
for stabilizing tailing material from 
copper-nickel milling operations and re- 
ducing liberation of toxic elements from 
the tailings. 

12. Study of the Effects of Subsidence 
From Multiple Seam Coal Mining 
(TCRC, University of Missouri, 
J0225021) 

Objective : To investigate the ef- 
fects of subsidence in the Rend Lake 
area. The site includes multiple seam 
mining and is close to a large earthen 
dam. 

13. Impact of Surface Mining on Soil 
Compaction in the Midwestern 
U.S.A. (TCRC, Hittman, H0208016) 

Objective : To assess the nature and 
extent of soil compaction problems in 
coal mining areas of the Midwest from 
both premining and postmining perspec- 
tives , and recommend ways in which the 
problems might be eliminated or abated. 

14. Determine Effectiveness of Dust 
Controls for Unpaved Mine Roads 
(TCRC, Pedco Environmental, 
J0218021) 

Objective : To determine the cost- 
effectiveness of dust controls used on 
unpaved haul and access roads in surface 
mines. 

15. Fatigue Tests in Full-Scale Block 
Walls (TCRC, U.S. Department of 
Commerce, National Bureau of 
Standards, JO 123061) 

Objective : To test full-scale block 
walls as part of the earthquake seismic 



21 



research program at the National Bu- 
reau of Standards (NBS). The NBS has 
completed construction of a large tri- 
directional vibration test facility that 
will accommodate the proposed Bureau 
block wall tests. NBS will test several 
block wall configurations to determine 
fatigue effects, minor damage vibra- 
tion levels , and serviceability of block 
walls. 

16. Florida Phosphate Mine Reclamation 
(TURC, U.S. Fish and Wildlife 
Service, J0123057) 

Objective : To cooperate with the 
Fish and Wildlife Service in the effec- 
tive consideration of fish and wildlife 
resources related to the proposed mining 
and subsequent reclamation of a natural 
wetland at the Big Four Mine. 

17. Monitoring of Phosphate Mining Area 
in Central Florida Using Landsat 
Satellite Imagery (TURC, University 
of New Mexico, JO 113099) 

Objective : To monitor the central 
Florida phosphate area by satellite in an 
attempt to determine the effect of mining 
on wetlands. 



18. Technology for Control of 
Environmental Noise From Off Road 
Haul Trucks (TCRC, Woodward 
Associates, Inc., J0218020) 

Objective : To develop cost-effec- 
tive techniques for reducing the noise 
from large haulage trucks without sig- 
nificantly reducing the efficiency of 
the vehicles. Prototype noise reduction 
techniques would be applied to trucks and 
demonstrated under operating conditions. 

19. Influence of Rock Mass 
Discontinuities on Coal Mine 
Subsidence (TCRC, Woodward- 
Clyde, J0100087) 

Objective : To determine the effects 
of rock mass discontinuities, both 
regional and site-specific, on coal 
mine longwall subsidence. Using two- 
dimensional finite element analysis sup- 
ported by comprehensive surface panel 
monitoring data and geomechanical labora- 
tory and in-mine instrumentation data, 
the rock mass response to mining opera- 
tions shall be modeled and the general 
applicability of the finite element tech- 
nique shall be assessed as a subsidence 
prediction tool. 



H 



INT.-BU.OF MINES, PGH., PA. 27579 



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